Temporomandibular Tension Syndrome And Its Relationship To Stress

Stress and temporomandibular tension syndrome are often related . Jaw pain and discomfort when speaking, yawning and even eating are conditions that affect more and more people. It’s not by chance. With the increase in stress and anxiety disorders, this reality is a characteristic manifestation that the dentist sees every day in his office.

Temporomandibular syndrome (TMS) or Costen syndrome is basically that pain that focuses on the area of ​​the jaw joint and the surrounding muscles. It usually appears in the morning, just when we wake up and feel a clench in our teeth. Gradually, we notice that it is more intense when we talk or try to eat.

From that moment on,  other discomforts can add up: congestion in the ears, tinnitus, headache, neck tension … There usually comes a time when the discomfort is so intense, diffuse and constant that the person feels overwhelmed. It is important to know this condition and its triggers.

Let’s delve into this subject.

Stress and temporomandibular tension syndrome: characteristics, causes and treatment

If we had to define what the temporomandibular joint is, it would be enough to visualize a hinge. It is a key area that connects the jaw to the side of the head. With this image we can intuit how this area is decisive for almost all daily activities… The simple fact of yawning in the morning when waking up is just the prelude to what comes next. Talking, chewing, eating, drinking…

If we feel pain, it is also enough to remember that it is not just any joint. The temporomandibular region integrates multiple structures: cartilaginous discs, muscles, ligaments, nerves, blood vessels, our teeth and, finally, it also affects the ears and the neck region.

Temporomandibular syndrome (TMS) was not a much talked about disease until recently, but in recent years, its incidence has increased.

What are the symptoms of temporomandibular syndrome?

Stress and temporomandibular syndrome often appear together. However, the most common is that people first look for the dentist because of discomfort in that region, without relating this illness to a psychological disorder.

On average, this temporomandibular pain is more common in women in their 30s and 50s.

• There is a toothache picture.
• Many people define this suffering as having a crooked jaw.
• This area hurts and weighs like we’ve been hit.
• Pain is more evident when talking or eating.
• Difficulty and pain when opening the mouth.
• It is common to hear popping noises when opening and closing the mouth or chewing.

• Stiffness in the jaws.
• Earaches or around them, and also in the temples.
• Changes in bite,
• Sensitive and worn teeth.
• Neck pain may also appear.
• Many patients suffer from tinnitus.
• Headaches may also  appear.

What is usually the cause?

Temporomandibular syndrome and stress are often two sides of the same coin. However, it is always necessary to have the proper diagnosis from specialists. In general, it is necessary to talk about the following triggers:

• Dental Disorders: Misalignment of teeth can lead to bruxism, and this to temporomandibular pain.
• In more than 70% of cases, the trigger is stress. A study carried out at the University of Minas Gerais (Brazil) described how this disorder is increasingly common in the university population. Worries, uncontrolled emotions, pressure and everyday problems make this discomfort a frequent reason for visits to the dentist.

• The origin is also usually in anatomical aspects,  in dislocations in this region of the jaw, trauma, muscle problems and even neurological disorders.

How is temporomandibular tension syndrome treated?

We know that stress and temporomandibular tension syndrome are closely related. We have also seen that, in recent years, and due to the increase in stress and anxiety disorders, this and other physical manifestations are undoubtedly limiting our quality of life.

In these situations, it  is convenient to have the attention and supervision of several specialists (doctors and psychologists). In the case of dentists, they can choose the following strategies:

• Stabilizing splints. These are devices that aim to reduce muscle pain by exerting pressure on the jaw. With them, we stop bruxism and also modify the sensory stimulation of this area.
• Physiotherapy. In addition to classic splints, a treatment based on mandibular physiotherapy is also very beneficial. It usually gives good results and improves this problem a lot.
• On the other hand, to treat what in many cases is the basic problem (stress), it is advisable to integrate several techniques into our routine. Diaphragmatic breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, visualization, and even yoga  can help.

However, if we have been with this condition for several months and other aggravating factors, such as insomnia, it is advisable to consult a psychologist. We sometimes feel overwhelmed by physical symptoms and psychological triggers that are limiting our lives. Asking for help is the best and most recommended step.